PERTH, AUSTRALIA – 1 November 2026 – SEMAS Academy Australia, a provider of Soroban-based mathematics programmes, is discussing the role of abacus education in supporting children's understanding of numbers and arithmetic. Through its Abacus Perth learning centres, the academy introduces students to practical calculation methods that combine physical bead movements, visual exercises and progressively more challenging numerical activities.
Building Number Understanding Through Practical Activities
Children develop mathematical understanding through different types of learning experiences.
While classroom instruction often includes written calculations and number exercises, hands-on materials can provide another way to represent mathematical concepts.
The Soroban uses movable beads to show numerical values and arithmetic operations.
SEMAS Academy Australia's introductory lessons familiarise young learners with the instrument before moving into structured calculation tasks.
Students can practise recognising quantities, combining numbers and understanding how values change during addition or subtraction.
The process allows learners to observe calculations as a series of actions rather than relying exclusively on memorised procedures.
Encouraging Visualisation in Mathematics
Visualisation plays a central role in Soroban-based mental arithmetic.
After learning to use the physical instrument, students may begin imagining bead positions while working through calculations.
SEMAS integrates this progression into its course structure.
Students practise representing numbers visually, following sequences and completing arithmetic exercises.
Such activities provide opportunities to develop familiarity with numerical relationships.
However, individual progress varies, and improvements in broader cognitive abilities should not be assumed solely from participation in abacus classes.
The academy's approach is best understood as structured additional arithmetic practice.
Providing Age-Appropriate Learning Pathways
A single teaching method may not be suitable for every stage of childhood development.
SEMAS Academy Australia divides its main programmes into Mini Soroban, Soroban Kids and Mastering Soroban.
Mini Soroban introduces foundational concepts to children approximately three to five years old.
Soroban Kids develops basic calculation techniques for primary-school learners.
Mastering Soroban provides more advanced arithmetic activities for students ready to progress beyond introductory methods.
Parents should consider their child's mathematical understanding, maturity and interest when selecting a course.
Placement may differ from the suggested age ranges.
Supporting Practice Without Excessive Pressure
Regular practice is an important part of acquiring calculation skills.
Short, manageable exercises can help children become familiar with bead movements and arithmetic methods.
SEMAS publishes home-practice guidance alongside its course details.
Families can support learning by encouraging children to explain their calculations and practise at a comfortable pace.
Activities should remain appropriate to each child's attention span and existing abilities.
Progress is better assessed through developing understanding than speed alone.
Connecting Additional Learning With School Mathematics
Abacus lessons may complement classroom topics such as place value, addition and subtraction.
Parents can help children connect what they learn through Soroban activities with the mathematical methods used at school.
SEMAS offers classes across Perth, including Landsdale, South Perth, Joondalup and Cockburn.
Families can enquire about course levels and introductory lessons through the academy.
About SEMAS Academy Australia
SEMAS Academy Australia provides Soroban Education Mental Arithmetic System programmes for children.
Its courses introduce physical abacus calculations and develop towards mental arithmetic practice through age-based learning pathways.
The academy operates learning centres across Western Australia and other parts of Australia.
Through structured lessons and accessible mathematical activities, SEMAS Academy Australia continues to provide an additional learning opportunity for families interested in children's numeracy development.
Learn more at- https://semas.com.au/